1. you can't turn the key after the car is running, making that awful sound of the starter
2. no ignition switch to wear out by turning and wearing out contacts (this would take a while)
3. less wiring. You dont need to run all the wiring for relays or accessories to the switch. (mfr adv.)
4. some drivers with disabilities would surely appreciate it. For example, someone with arthritis may have a problem gripping and turning keys.
5. comfort - never having to fumble for keys

Maybe 'future cool' will be retro and we'll go back to using a hand crank.


Edit: The owners manual states:
BATTERY SAVER SYSTEM
When all the following conditions are met for 60 minutes, the battery saver system will cut off the power supply to prevent battery discharge.
● The ignition switch is in the ACC position,
and
● All doors are closed, and
● The selector lever is in the P (Park) position
(Automatic Transmission models).

It shouldn't have been on for a few hours unless something malfunctioned.

 

Does the hitting the button twice trick work for phone call too?

 

Yes it does.

 

This...^^^

I sometimes leave my radio on while washing my car....and yes, it will shut off on it's own after awhile.

 

In hot or cold weather, the push button is sometime inconvenience for me. I used to open the door, put my hand to insert the key and turn on Engine, then I can continue to open other doors to let hot air out or shove the snow off the windows. But with push button, I must sit inside, apply brake, blahblah. I don't want to install the remote starter because my older one played me around.

 

Tried it this afternoon, actually, it is 3 pushes consequently and quickly, instead of 2.

 

It's 2 for ACC. It was 2 on my 07 G and it's 2 on my 11G.

FWIW, FYI
Emergency engine shut off:
To shut off the engine in an emergency situation while driving perform the following procedure:
● Rapidly push the push-button ignition
switch 3 consecutive times, or
● Push and hold the push-button ignition for
more than 2 seconds.

 

The manuals are a bit more cumbersome. You have to push the clutch in, and hold it there until the car starts. If you release the clutch it as it's starting, car will die out. In the winter, i'll typically clear off the car before starting it. Let it idle for 30-60 seconds, then take off. 1/2 mile down the road, warm air is already starting to blow from the vents.